UFC 320 Loses Key Fight Days Before Event Amid Health Withdrawals

UFC 320 features a highly anticipated rematch between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira for the light heavyweight title, with Ankalaev favored to win again given his success in neutralizing Pereira's striking and using wrestling control, according to several UFC fighters. Pereira, the 205-pound champion since November 2023, previously defended his title three times before losing to Ankalaev by unanimous decision in March, and experts debate if he can adjust to reclaim the belt. Meanwhile, the event suffered a setback when Ozzy Diaz withdrew from his middleweight bout against Ateba Gautier due to health issues, leaving the UFC scrambling for a replacement and casting uncertainty on Diaz's immediate future. Gautier, a promising prospect with quick finishes in his UFC debut fights, now faces the possibility of no opponent in this event, though the UFC may attempt to find a last-minute substitution. The card also includes bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili defending his title against Cory Sandhagen, adding to the high stakes of the night. This combination of title fights and recent fight cancellations underscores the unpredictable nature of UFC events leading into fight week.